The Philadelphia 76ers are rumored to be looking for an upgrade on the margins, meaning they will be looking for better role players before the trade deadline. Luckily for them, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s mess may have just given them a golden ticket to pursue someone who is literally perfect for the team.
As everyone knows by now, the two-time Most Valuable Player recently made it clear that he will never demand a trade from the Bucks. But given how much Milwaukee has struggled and how little ammunition they have going forward, they might still be forced to pull the trigger themselves. A possible outcome of this is a subsequent fire sale, which could make someone like Bobby Portis available for acquisition.
In fact, the Bucks have done just that reportedly already estimated the possible market for the veteran big man, so it’s not like their front office considers him isolated from a midseason trade. But given the huge cloud hanging over Giannis, Milwaukee will be better off aggressively shopping Portis. If so, the 76ers need to be knocking on their door immediately.
Bobby Portis would be a perfect trade target for the 76ers
The 76ers have a stronger cast of backup bigs behind Joel Embiid this time around, but an upgrade will further elevate their class as a collective. Portis, who has been one of the best bench catalysts in the league this decade, would fit them like a glove.
Some variety in the frontcourt would be welcome, and Portis provides plenty of that with his three-point shooting. A bona fide piece of greatness, that’s what he is at the moment leading the NBA in three-point shooting percentage at a stellar 47.6 percent clip from downtown. He has drained 40.7 percent of his triples since joining the Bucks in 2020, so there are absolutely no concerns in that regard.
In fact, Portis stands out from other non-star big men by being a great rebounder and a competent defender. He has averaged 8.1 rebounds in just 24.8 minutes per outing since 2020, which is a very impressive figure in itself. While not much of a shot blocker, he is a reliable positional defender who can guard all frontcourt positions with relative ease, especially when paired with another big.
The 76ers desperately need three-point shooting and bench scoring – two things Bobby Portis can do easy provide them. If Giannis’ trade engine for the Bucks strengthens, Philly’s brass should capitalize and go after the veteran and NBA champion, who is difficult to strengthen.
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